Description
A quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired grilled chicken skewer recipe featuring fresh lemon juice and herbs, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60 ml)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (45 ml)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Vegetables for skewering (bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Add red pepper flakes and fresh parsley if using.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Chop any vegetables if desired. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if using, leaving space between pieces.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.
- Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of lemon juice.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid mushy texture. If no grill is available, broil in the oven for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximat
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Mediterranean, lemon herb, grilled chicken, chicken skewers, quick dinner, healthy, weeknight meal